Voice from the Manger

Andover Chamber Choir Presents 'Voices from the Manger'

Andover Chamber Choir celebrates the festive season with their Christmas concert, 'Voices from the Manger', a beautiful journey through the Nativity story told in words and music.

Under direction of their new Musical Director, Lucy Hole, the Chamber Choir presents a programme of evocative carols and seasonal pieces, bringing to life the various perspectives of those witnessing the birth of Christ. The music is complemented by seasonal readings, including poetry by Christina Rossetti and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, which further explore the different aspects of the Christmas narrative.

The musical journey starts by celebrating the sheer joy of the birth with favourites like Ralph Vaughan Williams's This is the truth sent from above and David Willcocks's arrangement of Unto us is born a son. The programme then turns its attention to the voices of the magi and the shepherds, featuring pieces such as Francis Poulenc’s Videntes Stellam and Peter Warlock’s haunting Bethlehem Down.

The second half of the concert focuses on Mary and Joseph, with themes of light and peace, including Philip Stopford's Lully lulla lullay and Martin Shaw’s arrangement of The Cherry Tree Carol, before centering in on the serene heart of the Christmas story and concluding with a rousing celebration of well-loved carols for all.

With such a wealth of musical material that surrounds the Christmas story, this concert is presented to highlight the different characters and emotions of the Nativity. A wide range of styles aims to enrich the atmospheric celebration, with beautiful, ancient pieces by composers like Praetorius and Scheidt interweaved with more contemporary works, such as Bob Chilcott's The shepherd's carol and Ola Gjeilo’s stunning Spotless Rose.

The concert takes place at 7.00pm, Saturday 20th December, St Mary’s Church, Andover. Tickets are £18 on the door or £15 in advance from The Lights (in person and online) or through choir members. Under 16s are admitted free.  Refreshments are included.

Proceeds are in aid of Andover Food Bank, providing essential support to local individuals and families in crisis this winter.